Gas Station Congestion Between Destin and Pensacola
Today, an NBC News audio engineer encountered a scene where roughly 150 cars were lined up at a gas station between Destin and Pensacola, Florida. The reason behind this unusual line of cars was not immediately clear.
Flooding Concerns in Southern California
Southern California is currently dealing with coastal flooding threats due to Tropical Storm Rachel, which approaches Baja California. Waves of 5 to 7 feet, reaching as high as 9 feet, are expected along the coast tonight. This, coupled with high tide, may result in significant flooding from Malibu to San Diego. Last night, Newport Beach experienced floodwaters that submerged Balboa Boulevard.
Rachel is anticipated to make landfall in Baja California late tonight or early tomorrow. The storm could bring heavy rain and gusty winds to the southwestern U.S.
Isaias: Post-Tropical Cyclone Threats
Isaias, now a post-tropical cyclone, is breaking apart over central Alabama. However, heavy rain and strong winds continue to pose a threat to the eastern U.S. Approximately 10 million people from Florida to southern Virginia remain under flood alerts. Rainfall totals have approached 13 inches in places like Bellwood, Alabama, and 12.5 inches in Caney Creek, Florida. Areas like Destin, Florida, recorded 7.5 inches.
Wind alerts affect around 22 million people from Louisiana to Pennsylvania, with gusts up to 60 mph expected.
Florida’s Recovery Efforts
Florida officials highlighted that businesses and roads are reopening in areas impacted by the storm. Despite successful restoration of 10,000 power outages, over 430,000 customers remain without electricity. The governor confirmed two storm-related deaths in Escambia County. One victim died after a tree fell on a home, while another was found in a closed garage with a running generator.
Officials continue to warn residents against using generators indoors due to potential fatalities from carbon monoxide poisoning.
Power Outages Across Multiple States
Approximately 700,000 customers across five states remain without power as a result of Isaias. Florida tops the list with over 420,000 outages. Alabama follows with about 200,000. Georgia, Mississippi, and Tennessee also report significant outages. Travel and safety warnings have been issued across the affected areas.
Pensacola Hotel Damage Captured On Aerial Drone
The Rest and Relax Inn in Pensacola, Florida, suffered extensive damage with roofing materials stripped away. Drone footage highlighted widespread debris and wreckage, including broken trash and parts of the roof scattered throughout the property.
Isaias Death Toll and Storm Impacts
The fatality count from Isaias has risen to four, with reported deaths in Florida and Alabama. The recent fatality involved someone found dead inside a closed garage with a running generator. Heavy winds and fallen trees have contributed to the deaths in Alabama.
Recovery efforts continue as officials warn of ongoing threats such as additional spinoff tornadoes.
Storm Impact on Institutions and Businesses
Pensacola State College announced closures through Monday due to power outages and cleanup efforts. Meanwhile, Waffle House, known for remaining open during severe conditions, shut down several locations.
NASCAR and Presidential Changes
Severe weather prompted the postponement of a NASCAR event in North Carolina. President Donald Trump announced he would not attend the Alabama-Georgia football game due to storm concerns.
Avoiding Travel and Exercise Caution
Officials urge residents to stay cautious, mentioning that power lines, floodwaters, and damaged structures persist as immediate threats. Public caution is emphasized in the days following the storm to prevent further injuries or loss of life.
Impact of Tropical Storms Rachel and Simon
Tropical Storm Rachel is rapidly moving northeast and expected to make landfall in Baja California. Long Beach, California issued evacuation orders due to anticipated flooding. Meanwhile, Hurricane Simon intensifies with speeds of 150 mph along Mexico’s coast, posing threats of flooding and mudslides.
Personal Stories Amid the Storm
A couple named Blake and Barbara White postponed their wedding near Destin due to Isaias. An Alabama sheriff’s deputy narrowly escaped injury when a tree crashed on his SUV, highlighting the storm’s danger.
Witnesses captured the storm ripping off Pensacola hotel roofs, emphasizing the extensive damage to local structures.